SHIKI Boutique | Sakethek: Europe’s First Symbiotic Space for Japanese Craftsmanship and Premium Sake Opens in Vienna
Joji Hattori brings sake culture and Japanese design to Vienna’s First District
Vienna can look forward to an exceptional new opening: Joji Hattori, who recently celebrated the tenth anniversary of his multi-award-winning restaurant SHIKI, is now realizing another heartfelt project with the SHIKI Boutique and its connected Sakethek – a concept that is currently unique in Europe.
With the SHIKI Boutique | Sakethek, the restaurateur and conductor expands SHIKI into an entirely new dimension and invites guests to experience Japanese culture with all their senses. Visitors not only have the opportunity to taste sake on site, but also to take a piece of Japan home – whether in the form of exceptional sake or masterfully crafted artworks from Japan’s most renowned artisans. In this way, pleasure, tradition, and craftsmanship merge into a singular, holistic experience.
Japanese Craftsmanship to Take Home
The SHIKI Boutique | Sakethek follows a carefully thought-out concept that authentically brings the essence of Japanese culture to Vienna. Upon entering, guests are welcomed by an atmosphere of minimalist elegance, shaped by finely tuned design elements. Every detail – from the carefully selected materials to the subtle lighting concept and the handpicked furnishings – reflects Joji Hattori’s vision for this project: refined, high-quality, and deeply respectful of Japanese craftsmanship.
“It has long been my dream to present the finest objects of Japanese craftsmanship in Europe. Although there has been great interest in Japanese artisanal work in Europe – at the latest since the Japonisme movement in the 19th century – there are today hardly any shops in Europe that sell these kinds of objects,” Joji Hattori reflects.
This is something the new boutique now changes: In artfully arranged, custom-made furniture, Japanese artisanal pieces are harmoniously combined with an exclusive selection of handpicked sake varieties. Carefully curated and elegantly displayed, the boutique brings together exquisite masterpieces that embody centuries-old precision, perfect aesthetics, and deeply rooted craftsmanship.
The boutique celebrates the beauty of traditional craftsmanship from both Japan and Europe: elegant lacquerware from Nosaku, tinware from Nousaku, Suzugami hammered metalwork by Syouryu, hand-forged knives by Tadafusa and Nenohi, and the finest porcelain from Fukagawa exemplify the perfection of Japanese artistry. Complementing these are timelessly elegant porcelain pieces by Kihara, offering a more practical, everyday application of Japanese craftsmanship. This curated ensemble is further enriched by artfully crafted fans, exquisite textiles from Iono, and harmonious sound elements by Koizumi.
European craftsmanship is also given a platform: Shikimono garments designed exclusively for the SHIKI Sakethek by Natascha von Abensperg und Traun blend the elegance of Japanese aesthetics with the sophistication of European artisanal tradition.
“The SHIKI Boutique presents a curated selection of Japanese lacquerware, porcelain, tinworks, knives, and finely crafted textiles. Many of our partner workshops are exporting their masterpieces to Europe for the very first time,” explains Joji Hattori.
Sakethek: A Place for Connoisseurs and Explorers
The Sakethek, connected to the boutique, offers more than just the opportunity to purchase sake – it invites guests to discover it: thoughtfully curated tasting sets allow visitors to explore the subtle nuances of sake and become fascinated by the diversity of this centuries-old tradition.
The hand-selected range of sake is curated by Yuri Iwata, the exclusive supplier for the SHIKI Sakethek, who brings her deep expertise in Japanese brewing:
“By now, I have visited more than 100 sake breweries across Japan and have built close relationships with the passionate brewmasters. Based on this trust, we are proud to present in Vienna an exclusive selection of premium sake that reflects the culture and pride of Japan.”
On select days, Yuri Iwata will be present in person, offering guests personalized recommendations and unique insights into this ancient tradition.
Alongside her, a team of highly trained experts ensures knowledgeable guidance: all staff members are either currently undergoing a specialized sake certification or have already completed it. Beyond their expertise, they share one thing above all – a genuine passion for the art of Japanese brewing, a joy they enthusiastically pass on to every guest.
With its unique blend of exquisite sake, masterful craftsmanship, and pure aesthetic refinement, the SHIKI Boutique | Sakethek sets new standards – a place where the essence of Japan can be experienced with all senses.
